ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesF13.21

F13.21

Billable

Sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic dependence, in remission

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 F13.21 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic dependence, in remission.

Key Diagnostic Point:

F13.21 refers to a condition characterized by a psychological and physical dependence on sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic substances, which are often prescribed for anxiety, sleep disorders, or muscle relaxation. In this context, 'in remission' indicates that the individual has not engaged in the use of these substances for a significant period, typically defined as at least one month, and is not currently experiencing withdrawal symptoms or cravings. The diagnosis of dependence is based on criteria such as tolerance, withdrawal, and continued use despite negative consequences. Treatment may involve behavioral therapies, support groups, and, in some cases, medication to manage underlying anxiety or sleep disorders. It is crucial for healthcare providers to monitor patients for potential relapse and to provide ongoing support to maintain remission. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and insurance reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between dependence and abuse
  • Identifying remission status accurately
  • Documenting previous substance use history
  • Understanding the nuances of withdrawal symptoms

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of remission status
  • Failure to document previous substance use history
  • Misclassification of dependence vs. abuse
  • Lack of follow-up notes on treatment progress

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Psychiatry

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, treatment plans, and progress notes are essential for accurate coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients transitioning from active substance use to recovery, those in outpatient therapy, and individuals requiring medication management.

Billing Considerations

Psychiatrists should document any co-occurring mental health disorders that may affect treatment and recovery.

Addiction Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments, including substance use history and treatment response, are critical.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing detoxification, those in rehabilitation programs, and individuals in aftercare.

Billing Considerations

Addiction specialists must ensure that all aspects of the patient's recovery journey are documented to support the diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use F13.21 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, F13
  • 21 should be used when the patient has a documented history of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic dependence and is currently in remission
  • Documentation must reflect the absence of withdrawal symptoms and the duration of remission

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use F13.21 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99406CPT Code

Smoking and tobacco use cessation counseling visit

Clinical Scenario

When a patient in remission is counseled on lifestyle changes to prevent relapse.

Documentation Requirements

Document the counseling session details and patient response.

Specialty Considerations

Counseling should be tailored to the patient's history of substance use.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of substance use disorders, including the differentiation between active dependence and remission. This specificity aids in better treatment planning and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of substance use disorders, including the differentiation between active dependence and remission. This specificity aids in better treatment planning and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of substance use disorders, including the differentiation between active dependence and remission. This specificity aids in better treatment planning and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'in remission' mean in the context of F13.21?

'In remission' indicates that the patient has not used sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic substances for a significant period and is not experiencing withdrawal symptoms or cravings.